There is doom metal and there is funeral doom: the kind of doom that is more extreme, more ponderous, still slower and for more people also more monotonous than regular doom/death metal. Longing For Dawn are masters in this ultimate inaccessible form of dejected art.On their third epos ‘Between Elation And Despair’ they even grew extremer. This comes from the deepest of the Canadian soul, this ends into eruption, this is an enchanting plea for inertia in our existence, this is Longing For Dawn!

The album almost takes an hour and includes four extended compositions – the shortest one nine minutes, the longest one sixteen minutes – which invoke the following feelings in me. Like an approaching storm that rages somewhere else for now, the atmospheric music blows our way. Apocalyptic sounds blend with very slow guitar notes. Monumental riffs join in and keep on repeat themselves. Distant screams of agony ascend from deep abysses. The sound changes into a low-pitched guttural grunt. The suffer of all mankind is carried on the shoulders of Longing For Dawn.

‘Between Elation And Despair’ marks an evolution in the development of the band. The slightly melodic aspect has made place for atmospheric ambient-alike sounds. One may discover unworldly choirs in this soaring background sound, the general penchant is very solemn and fairly pontifical. Like every funeral doom record, this music appeals to the loyal, true adepts. These stalwarts should leave their dark caves for a while in April, since Longing For Dawn hits the road then for an European tour with the Irish band Mourning Beloveth and the Australian Mournful Congregation. A not-to-miss package for true doom fans!